Food poisoning, also called foodborne illness, is illness caused by eating contaminated food. During the holidays, cases of food poisoning may rise due to improper handling of food. Don’t stress over your health this Thanksgiving, and learn how to practice food safety in your kitchen. If you’re experiencing food poisoning sickness, visit AFC Urgent Care Louisville on a walk-in basis to receive proper food poisoning treatment and start feeling better fast. Read more about common symptoms, guidelines and turkey tips.
What is Food Safety?
Food safety refers to properly handling and storing food. Whether you’re eating out at a restaurant or cooking a meal at home, food safety is essential to our overall health and wellbeing. There are four main steps to food safety: cleaning, separating, cooking, and chilling.
- Cleaning refers to properly sanitizing your cutting boards and surfaces in between uses. Additionally, washing hands and utensils is important in eliminating germs that can linger.
- Separating means keeping raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs apart from other foods as they can spread germs more easily than other food products.
- Cook foods to their correct temperatures and use a thermometer to ensure food is cooked safely (especially poultry).
- Refrigerating food after cooking and storing leftovers properly is important to prevent bacteria from poisoning food.
What Are Food Poisoning Symptoms?
Food poisoning symptoms cause serious discomfort, and can be anywhere from mild to very serious depending on the germ you consumed. After you swallow contaminated food or drink, it can be crucial to seek medical treatment to prevent severe complications. Foodborne illness depends on what bacteria, virus or parasite was in the food you ate, how much was consumed, and whether you have any underlying medical conditions.
Some common symptoms of food poisoning include:
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Loss of Appetite
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Signs of dehydration
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you can visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Louisville for illness treatment. Our team of medical providers can replace loss fluids or prescribe antibiotics depending on your case.
How to Practice Food Safety on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is an especially important time to practice food safety, as we commonly gather with friends and family to share a large meal. If you're cooking Thanksgiving dinner, there are some strategies you should follow to make sure the Turkey and side dishes are safe to consume. Always follow the food safety guidelines that are outlined above. When it comes to preparing and cooking your Turkey, remember to thaw safely.
Thaw your turkey in the refrigerator, and place it in a container to prevent any bacteria from contaminating other foods in your fridge or freezer. You should allow about 24 hours of thawing for each 4 to 5 pounds of turkey. When cooking, use a food thermometer to make sure your turkey has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Louisville for Illness Treatment
At AFC Urgent Care Louisville, we specialize in treating various general illnesses, including food poisoning. The clinic is open for extended hours seven days a week. Our team of licensed, medical professionals specialize in illness treatment for your entire family. Don’t let food poisoning symptoms get the best of you this Thanksgiving. Visit AFC Louisville for preventive health services with no appointment necessary. For more information on food safety, or other urgent care services we provide, call us directly at (720) 961-9700.
